Happy Hinamatsuri

Today was Hinamatsuri in Japan...which translates to "Festival of the Dolls" and is more commonly referred to as Girls' Day.

Typically it is celebrated in the home, as families put out an elaborate display of dolls, like this one:



It is something that is usually passed down from generation to generation...and they start at several hundred dollars and go up from there, depending on how large and elaborate. Parties with friends are typically held, where tea and little rice cakes and candies are offered. A special meal involving sushi might also be prepared.

Since we didn't really want to drop several hundred dollars on a large doll display we're only allowed to display a few days a year (lest our daughter be cursed with a late marriage)...we decided to focus on the food.

Firstly, I offered to take Coree anywhere on the whole island to eat lunch. I was keeping my fingers crossed for someplace good. She thought about it for a long time. Finally, she made her announcement. Subway. Yes, Subway. The place we go to catch a quick lunch at least once a week. The only food she's wanted served her past two birthdays in a row. Why didn't I see this one coming and work a non-Subway clause into the proposal?

So, I stifled my (sushi-go-round) disappointment and we headed to the food court.

On our way home, we stopped by the patisserie to pick up one of these:










At least there was cake. And good, Japanese sponge cake with strawberry filling, no less.




Happy Girls' Day, Coree...



Next year, I pick the restaurant, K?